Definition: Thou shalt sow, but thou shalt not reap; thou shalt tread the olives, but thou shalt not anoint thee with oil; and sweet wine, but shalt not drink wine.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly poetic Bible verse! It’s a really interesting one that speaks to a deeper idea about how we should live our lives. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that we shouldn’t always expect immediate rewards or benefits from our efforts. It’s about focusing on the process, not just the outcome. It’s a reminder to be patient and trust in God’s plan, even when things don't look perfect right away. Let's unpack it word by word: “Thou shalt sow, but thou shalt not reap…” – This means we should put our efforts into something, but don't expect to immediately gain anything back . It’s about planting seeds and working hard, but not expecting a harvest right away. Think of planting a seed – you don’t get fruit instantly! “…Thou shalt tread the olives, but thou shalt not anoint thee with oil…” – This refers to doing good work, like tending to others or helping those in need. But we shouldn't be overly focused on receiving praise or recognition for these things. We should focus on the act of caring and helping, not just the result. “And sweet wine, but shalt not drink wine.” – This is the most metaphorical part. It means that while we should enjoy the rewards of our efforts (like the sweetness of a good life), we shouldn’t be consumed by them. We shouldn't become obsessed with achieving something and forgetting to appreciate the journey itself. It’s about moderation and enjoying the present moment without chasing after endless reward. In essence, the verse is encouraging us to: Be patient: Things may not always work out immediately. Focus on the process: The effort matters more than the outcome. Practice gratitude: Appreciate what we're doing, even if it doesn’t bring immediate returns. Don’t become obsessed: Let our focus be on living a virtuous and meaningful life, not just on achieving specific results. Why is this verse important? It's often interpreted as a reminder that God’s plan for us isn’t always about getting everything we want immediately. It's about growing in character, developing virtues, and ultimately, finding fulfillment in the journey itself. It encourages humility – recognizing that our efforts are part of something bigger than ourselves. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give an example of how this verse applies to a specific situation?